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MR. PORTER'S 

HALF-CENTURY SERMON. 

RYE, N.H.— 1835. 



.iMi^ 



HALF CENTURY 



SERMON, 

IN TWO PARTS. 



PREACHED AT RYE, N. H. 



January, 1835. 



Br HUNTINGTOJr PORTER, A.M. 

SENIOR PASTOR OF THE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH IN THAT T0W5 



Occasioned by tlie close of Half a Century of his 
Ministry there. 



PUBLISHED BT REQUEST OF THE HEARERS. 



PORTSMOUTH: 
PRINTED BY MILLER & BREWSTER, 

1835. 



7^ 



fAA 



SERMON. 



In view of my age and infirmities, I hope, my friends, for your 
sympathy and candor, while I offer a few things for our mutual consid- 
eration and benefit. 

I am about to address you on a very unusual occasion ; — an occa- 
sion that never before occurred in this town, and in but few instances 
in any of the towns around us. The occasion is the close of half a 
century since I was ordained, and have statedly and occasionally 
labored in the work of the ministry in this place. O, how rapidly ; 
how insensibly; and, alas! how unprofitably have fifty years rolled 
away ! And yet how interesting have been many of the scenes, and 
solemn the dispensations of Providence, through which your aged pas- 
tor and the people of his charge have been called to pass ! Notwith- 
standing these various events, some of which have been afflictive, 
perilous and mortal, the speaker has been sustained by the arm of 
divine power and mercy, and is able to stand before you this day a 
witness of the sparing goodness of God. 

And now, my friends, what shall I say unto you ? With what 
words and feelings shall I come to you ? What inspired passage shall 
be selected on which to address you ? Shall I come to you, as St. 
Paul expresses it, " with a rod ? or in love, and in the spirit of meek- 
ness.^" If I should come to you with a rod, would there not be found 
some occasion for its use ? some occasion for correction and reproof? 
Would there not be found some neglects of duty, and indulgences of 
sin, which deserve censure and chastisement ? But if I should come 
to you in love, and in the spirit of meekness, it would, indeed, be more 
congenial to my own feelings, and, perhaps, more pleasing and accept- 
able to you. I have, however, selected a passage of Scripture, which 
may be considered more personal and humbling as it respects the 
speaker ; and a consideration of which, may not be unprofitable to his 
hearers. The passage was expressed by David the royal Psalmist, 
when addressing himself to the great Jehovah. It is recorded in 



Psalms, xxxix. 5. 

" MINE AGE IS AS NOTHING BEFORE THEE." 

This passage, I say, isihumbling to the speaker ; and is so, indeed^, 
to all present. Every one of us, the oldest as well as the youngest, 
has reason to say in the presence of the great Eternal, " Mine age is 
as nothing before thee." And yet this age of man, this short life, is 
exceedingly interesting as a season of probation, and as connected with 
a future endless state of existence. It is full of concerns, full of disap- 
pointments, trials and troubles; though, through divine unmerited 
goodness, intermingled with many privileges and blessings. Of these 
things we are frequently reminded in the word of God, and in the 
dispensations of Providence. Though these things make so little im- 
pression upon our minds, and have so little influence on our lives and 
conversation, they are not the less real on that account, nor the less 
solemn and deserving serious consideration. Shortly, and how soon or 
suddenly we know not, we must put off these earthly houses of our 
tabernacle, and follow our numerous friends and acquaintances, yea, 
the countless myriads of the human family that have gone before us, 
down to the silent grave, and into a solemn eternity. The sentence of 
death, we know, has gone out against all mankind ; and there is no 
discharge in that war. O, with what humility should we contemplate 
the brevity of human life ! Behold, God has made our days as a 
hand-breadth, and our age is as nothing before him. 

Too apt are we, especially when young, to extend our views forward, 
and calculate upon many days and years to come. There is indeed, a 
great difference, apparently, between life or an age in prospect, and 
the same viewed in retrospect. To look forward three score years 
and ten, or four score years, seems a great length of time; and, to 
those who are in the morning of life, as though it would scarcely ever 
come to an end. But, to those who have arrived to that period, life, in 
review, appears as a dream, or like a vapor that quickly passes away. 
The Patriarch Jacob, though he lived more than a century, was led 
at the close of life to say, " Few and evil have the days of the years 
of my life been." And the Psalmist says with respect to human life, 
if by reason of strength it be lengthened to four score years, it is soon 
cut off, and we fly away. Accordingly, these days and years are 
represented in Scripture to be very short, like a tale that is told ; and 
are said to be swifter than a weaver's shuttle ; to pass away as the swift 
ships, and as the eagle that hasteth to her prey. Although human life 
may appear thus short, even when prolonged to three score years and 



ten, yet during that time, how numerous and important are the changes 
that take place. If we confine our views to the last half century, O 
how great and wonderful are many of the changes that have occurred, 
not only in the world at large, or in our own country, but even in a 
single town, family, or individual. 

To consider the case of a single person ; how many interesting 
vicissitudes are experienced through the several stages of existence ; 
from infancy or childhood to youth, from youth to manhood, and from 
manhood during the remainder of life. These changes, which are 
various, and some of them exceedingly interesting, may have respect 
to health, strength, habitation, business, inward feelings, outward cir- 
cumstances, connexions in life, and numberless events of Providence 
both merciful and afflictive. All which are closed up at last by the 
great and solemn change which takes place in death. 

Further, with respect to a family. The vicissitudes are usually 
still more diversified and interesting in proportion to its numbers. 
Look into almost any family around you ; trace its history for fifty 
years, if it has existed so long, and how vastly changed ! Often so 
changed, that it scarcely appears to be the same family. Indeed, it 
is not the same. Some one, or more, or perhaps, all its members are 
gone, and others risen up in their stead ; another generation ; — a new 
family ! At first thought we are hardly sensible of the change ; but, 
on a little reflection we see, we know it to be so. One after another 
having passed off the stage, we at length, and it maybe in a few years, 
may say with respect to the heads of the family, the fathers and moth- 
ers, Where are they ? And, with respect to the brothers and sisters, or 
other members of the family, Have they not either been scattered 
abroad, or smitten by tiie stroke of death ? 

Furthermore, with respect to a ^oz/;rt ; what interesting and solemn 
changes occur in the course of half a century ! Even in a shorter 
period than this, one generation, averaging it at twenty five or thirty 
years, according to usual computation, passes away and another Com- 
eth upon the stage. O how little do we realise this change ! How 
solemn the thought, that the present generation, that we ourselves, our 
families, and all around us, yea, and the whole world of mankind, will 
soon be numbered with the dead, and such a vast multitude of immor- 
tal souls, summoned into an invisible, untried state, and their whole 
attention absorbed in the solemn scenes of eternity ! 

If moreover, we view the state of a country ; for instance, our own 
country, what great events and interesting changes frequently transpire ! 
particularly, with regard to political, civil, religious, and literary con- 



cerns. What a vast change, or increase of population ! From about 
three millions, fifty years ago, these United States have risen, by 
multiplying, emigration and additional territory, to a great nation of 
more than thirteen millions of inhabitants ! More than two-thirds 
of the present States, have been added to the Union, during the last 
half century. And a number of them were unsettled by civilized 
inhabitants, till after the commencement of that period, which are now 
increased to large and respectable states. How has the whole face of 
the country changed ! in the cultivation of the earth, in the many 
improvements that have been made, in the wonderful works that have 
been effected by the hand of industry and ingenuity. What new and 
important inventions have been discovered to facilitate the business of 
life; to the greater ease and expedition of travelling, and the transportation 
of goods from one city and village to another ; also, by means of 
straightening or shortening roads, constructing railways, canals, and 
steamboats; likewise, by manufactories, and machineries of varions kinds, 
together with many other conveniences, to facilitate the business of 
the mechanick, the husbandman, the mariner, and to ease the burden 
of the laboring class of the community generally. — ^View, also, a wide 
spread country, filled or filling rapidly with civilized inhabitants, where 
not long since dwelt only savage beasts, or more savage men. See 
large and increasing cities, pleasant and flourishing villages, with their 
stately edifices, fine accommodations, and sacred temples erected to the 
worship of God, which present themselves to view along the extensive 
coast, from one end of the continent to the other. And in the interior 
parts of our country, behold innumerable and beautiful flourishing 
towns, rising in prospect to the eye of the astonished citizen or stran- 
ger, as he travels along on business, or for his health, or to visit his 
friends, or to improve his mind in the acquisition of useful knowledge, 
which may be derived from a survey of the wonderful works of nature, 
and the pleasing productions of human skill. 

I mention these things not merely for gratification or embellish- 
ment of discourse; but, that our minds may be more deeply 
impressed with a sense of the wisdom and goodness of God, and 
the smiles of heaven upon the industry of our country ; and that 
we might realise more sensibly the obligations we are under of love 
and gratitude to our heavenly Benefactor, who according to the counsel 
of his own will, speaks concerning a nation or kingdom, to plant and to 
build up, or to pull down and destroy ; and whose hand is to be noticed 
3nd adored in all these things. 

If we in the next place take a survey oi the globe, we inhabit ; if we 



look around upon the nations of the earth, and contemplate the events, 
the changes, that have taken place within the lust half century, O 
how solemn, how interesting, have many of them been ! Tliere have 
been wars and rumors of wars, civil commotions and national conflicts, 
and the most awful carnage ; not only man rising against his fellow 
man in single combat, but nation against nation, devising new and the 
most effectual measures to kill and destroy one another. And, alas ! 
how many individuals have been led to destroy themselves ! How 
often have our ears been accosted with the unwelcome tidings of duels, 
riots, robberies, massacres, and garments rolled in blood ! And these 
things done even among those, who are called civilized nations, — chris- 
tian people ! Or, if we turn our attention to heathen lands ; what 
cruel and barbarous deeds are perpetrated there ! parents sacrificing 
their children, or, children murdering their aged and helpless parents, 
yea, wives in their superstitious frenzy, immolating themselves upon the 
funeral pile of their expiring companions ! Behold, likewise, what 
desolations have been made in the earth, by the pestilence that walketh 
in darkness, and the destruction that vvasteth at noon day ; by earth 
quakes in divers places ; by tornadoes, volcanoes, inundations and 
disasters by sea and land ; laying waste not only valuable property, but 
also the more precious lives of men. 

These calamities, to which mankind are hable, often take place 
in this our sinful world ; and are ever to be viewed as the sad effects 
of human apostacy and guilt. That these judgments are not more 
frequent and distressing than they are, is owing to the long suffering 
mercy of God, through our Lord Jesus Christ. By virtue of his me- 
diation, sacrifice and intercession, the hand of justice is in a measure 
stayed, a respite granted, mercy offered, and many sinful beings saved 
from ruin. In consequence of what Christ has done, kind and gra- 
cious measures are taken with the children of men ; ambassadors and 
preachers ol righteousness are raised up, and sent forth, to beseech 
sinners to turn from their evil ways and become reconciled to God ; 
to bow to the sceptre of the grace and government of the Redeemer, 
that they may not die, but live forever. 

We may further notice the great change that has taken place, during 
the last half century, with regard to a diversity of religious opinions. — 
Different religious sentiments have, indeed, been embraced and held, 
in all ages ; though at some periods with much less tenacity than at 
others. In the days of our Pilgrim fathers, the first emigrants to New- 
England, much harmony in doctrine and worship, it has been said, was 
enjoyed among them. Soon, however, there began to be some small 



diversity of sentiment in religious matters ; but not to such a degree, 
but that they could very generally and cordially meet and worship to- 
gether ; and brotherly love continued for a considerable length of lime, 
to bless them. It might then be truly said, Behold how these chris- 
tians Jove one another ! How good and how pleasant it is for breth- 
ren to dwell together in unity ! But since that time, and particularly 
within forty or fifty years, how great the change ! How great has 
been the departure in many instances, from the inspired apostolic in- 
junctions, which plafnly require of christians, that, if there be any 
comfort of love, any fellowship of the spirit, they be like minded, have 
the same love, be of one accordjof one mind ; and, because there is one 
body, and one spirit, even as they are called in one hope of their call- 
ing, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, they should therefore keep 
the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace, and love as brethren. — 
But now when we travel in our country, in almost any direction, we 
find our towns, in general, divided and subdivided into religious parties, 
and in some places, great strife and contention about church or secular 
concerns ; and consequent alienation of affection one Irom another, 
contrary to the nature of our holy rehgion, and the peacable laws of 
the Redeemer's kingdom. Whatever may be the cause of these things, 
whether ignorance, prejudice, or any sinister ends, the effects are very 
unhappy with regard to many of our country towns. But we console 
ourselves with the prospect, and even assurance, according to divine 
prophecies and promises, of a much more happy state of things here 
on earth, under the reign of the Prince of peace and love. 

Notwithstanding the many evils to which we have now referred, 
we should not forget that goodness of God, which so often and so gen- 
erally triumphs over the unworthiness and ill deserts of men. The all 
wise ruler of the universe, we know, makes his sun to rise on the evil 
and good, and sends down a variety of blessings both upon the 
just and unjust. He crowns the years, in general, with his loving kind- 
ness ; giving rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling the hearts of 
his rational offspring with food and gladness. O, how astonishing it is, 
that his great goodness has no better effect upon the hearts and lives of 
the chiUlren of men : leading no more of them to unfeigned repentance 
of sin, and to sincere love, gratitude and obedience to their kind and 
gracious Benefactor ! It may not be improper now to notice the many 
benevolent associations, that have recently been formed for the express 
purpose of promoting the temporal and spiritual benefit of men. Half 
a century ago, httle or nothing was heard of such benevolent associa- 
lions and christian efforts, as have since been witnessed. The great 



object of these societies a^id christian enterprises, is, to amehorate the 
condition of man, now rendered miserable in many respects by reason 
of sin ; and, to reform and save a world lying in wickedness. 

Contemplate, particularly, Bible associations ; whose noble object 
is, to send the word of life and salvation, to the needy and destitute 
parts of our own country, and also to those foreign lands, where inhab- 
itants are perishing for lack of the saving knowledge of God and Jesus 
Christ, whom to know is life eternal. We rejoice to hear and know, 
what these societies have done, and are still doing. They have had the 
sacred volume translated into more than two hundred different langua- 
ges, and sent it to those, who were going on blindfold, as it were, in the 
ways of sin, delusion and death. Multitudes have already, through this 
instrumentality, admitted the light of Christianity, and have believed and 
obeyed the truth. The glorious enterprise is still going forward with in- 
creasing encouragement and success. 

Contemplate, also, what is doing by Missionary societies. — 
Their great enterprise, is you know, to send out laborers into 
the wide field of the destitute world ; to proclaim the glad tidings 
of salvation to their dying fellow men ; and, if possible, to per- 
suade all to whom they preach, to embrace, love and obey the gospel. 
A large number of these laborers, or missionaries of the cross, have 
gone, and are going out from time to time, into the highways and 
bedgcB of our own, and of heathen lands. By the blessing of Heav- 
en, they have been instrumental of the conversion of many sinners, of 
forming new churches, and of establishing bible classes, sabbath and 
other schools. They have likewise led multitudes to cast their idols to 
the moles and to the bats; and, where satan's seat was, there to erect 
temples to the worship of the living and true God; in wiiich, religious 
homage is now paid to him, who made heaven and earth. 

Look, also, to those societies, whose great and laudable object it is, 
to find out poor and pious young men, worthy of charity, and educate 
them for the work of the ministry ; so that more laborers, and a suffi- 
cient number, if possible, may be raised up qualified, and go forth into 
all the world and preach the gospel to every creature ; to the impor- 
tant end, that the nations now in darkness, may see a great light, and 
no longer perish for lack of vision. 

Contemplate further, the societies piously engaged in publishing 
and circulating religious tracts. How happy has been the fruit of 
their labors! Who can calculate the full amount of good these little 
messengers, sent forth in all directions, and among almost all nations, 
have already accomplished t Have they not been instrumental of 



10 

quickening many of the children of God to greater activity and dili- 
gence in his service, as well as of convicting, converting, nnd savin"- 
many souls from death f 

We may notice also those associations of men, whose motto is, 
" Peace on earth and good will toward men." These are Peace soci- 
eties ; — peace makers ; and on such our Saviour pronounces a blessing. 
Their noble object is to prove, that all wars are founded in something 
wrong; that they arise from the lusts, passions, prejudices, ambition, or 
pride of the wicked hearts of men; endeavoring by addresses, pub- 
lications, and christian example, to encourage and propagate the benev- 
olent and peaceful principles of the religion of Jesus, the prince of 
peace; and thus, to put an end, not only to private feuds and conten- 
tions, but to those horrid and destructive wars, which are so often 
waged and cruelly prosecuted among nations. 

See, likewise, what is doing in this, and in other countries, to put 
an end to Slavery. Respectable associations have been formed, who 
have in view the noble enterprise of abolishing all traffick in human 
flesh, and of restoring to liberty and their just rights and privileges, 
those, who are now held in cruel bondage. Much has already been 
accomplished. Great Britain has set the noble example. She has 
abolished slavery at home, and in all her dominions. And this coun- 
try is not silent or inactive on this subject. Great and good men are 
engaged in this christian enterpise. The benevolent work of emanci- 
pation is progressing ; and the pleasing hope is now cherished, that 
the time is not far distant, when an utter end will be put to manstealing, 
slave purchasing, and slave holding, in this, and in every country 
where the evil exists. Why should any be held in slavery ? Why 
should the colored man be a slave to the white man, any more than 
the white to the colored ? No just reason can be assigned. Surely, 
tiien, the whole business of compulsory slavery is to be condemned 
as iniquitous, and ought to be abandoned speedily and forever. 

How much has been achieved, also, during the last half century, 
in the glorious cause of Temperance ! Almost innumerable societies 
have been formed in Europe and America, for the express purpose of 
showing by reason and argument, by facts and example, that the use 
of ardent spirits, is not only needless in health, and in all the ordinary 
business of life, but actually injurious to soul and body, 
and to the best interests of mankind. We have reason to rejoice, that 
on this subject, public opinion has so materially changed ; that so 
many of our first characters, members of Congress, and others in the 
higher stations of life, have countenanced and encouraged the tern- 



11 

perance reform ; tliat a large number have abandoned the manufacture, 
traffick and use of intoxicating liquors ; — that many drunkards have 
been reformed, and that the progress of reform is still onward, and 
has progressed to such a degree, that final victory is now strongly, if 
not confidently expected. At the same time it is deeply to be lament- 
ed, that under the blaze of light, that has for years shone around us, 
so many should remain blind, or will not acknowledge the deleterious 
effects of ardent spirits. Blind did I say? Can they remain blind, 
or ignorant ? Do they not know, have they not heard, that seventy-five 
physicians, nearly all the physicians of Boston, have publicly declared 
it as their opinion, that ardent spirits are not only needless in heahh, 
but injurious, impairing health, shortening life, and bringing on prema- 
ture death? Do they not know, that the medical society of our own 
state, composed of some of our most eminent physicians, have publicly 
declared the same opinion? and, that a large number of the faculty, in 
the cities of New-York, Albany, and other places, have also announced 
the same sentiment ? If any are to be found wiser than all these 
learned and experienced physicians, they must be wise indeed ! But, 
if under such respectable testimony as has been stated, any remain 
unconvinced, let them go to our infirmaries, to our alms houses, houses 
of correction, our jails, state prisons, courts of justice, to judges, 
lawyers, juries and witnesses, and they will have evidence enough. — 
We are in fact, eye witnesses ourselves, of the direful effects of intem- 
perance. We have seen enough. We have seen too much. We have 
sickened at the sight ; and, alas ! are not yet recovered. The eye affects 
the heart, and the heart is still burdened and distressed. In fine, we 
need no further evidence to prove beyond all dispute, that intoxicating 
liquors are the principal cause of the private and domestic broils, of 
poverty, distress, crimes, condemnation and capital punishments, that 
occur in our land. Hence, it appears high time for all to awake out 
of the stupor that has so long been manifested by many, and to join 
with one accord in adopting and pursuing all proper measures, to put 
a speedy end to the whole business of distilling, traffick and use of 
poisonous drinks. 

Besides the several Associations already noticed, there are vari- 
ous other societies formed and in operation, whose laudable objects are, 
to encourage and promote good morals, to suppress gambling, licen- 
tiousness, profanity, sabbath-breaking, and other violations of divine 
and human laws. I have thus particularly mentioned these several 
societies and their various efforts, not merely as interesting transactions 
of the last half century, but to lead our minds to consider more fully 



12 

the manifest bearing they have towards ameliorating the condition of 
man, and rendering the state of individuals, families, societies, towns,, 
countries, and even the world, more happy! What a clear bearing 
have they also, upon the fulfilment of many divine prophecies and 
promises ! In the Scriptures both of the Old and New Testaments, 
we find predictions of a far more happy state of things here on earth, 
than has ever yet been enjoyed ; when Christ by his word and spirit 
and the prevalence of his religion, will reign a thousand years ; when 
men shall turn their instruments of war and death into the peacable 
implements of husbandry ; when they shall no more teach every man 
his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, know the Lord ; for 
they shall all know him, from the least to the greatest; when the 
mountain of the Lord's house shall be established in the top of the 
mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills, and all nations shall 
flow unto it ; when beasts of the fiercest and mildest nature, as the 
wolf and the lamb, the leopard and the kid, the young lion and the 
calf, shall dwell and feed together, and 'a little child shall lead them ; 
and when there shall be none to hurt or destroy in all the holy moun- 
tain. 

These and many other desirable and glorious things, are plainly 
predicted in the sacred volume. There may, it is true, be 
many difficulties, much opposition, sore trials, sharp conflicts with the 
powers of darkness, and the machinations of wicked and designing 
men, before these things come to pass ; but they must and will, most 
assuredly, be accomplished ; for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it. 
All therefore, who are sincerely engaged on the Lord's side, will finally 
triumph. Do we not then see, that the benevolent efforts of the day ; — 
that bible, tract, missionary, peace, temperance, and all other benevo- 
lent associations in the general measures they are pursuing, and on 
which heaven has so remarkably smiled, look favorably and directly^ 
toward the accomplishment of glorious things ? O, happy time ! O, 
glorious day ! when an end shall be put to the many distressing evils 
and calamities now experienced by the human family. Hasten, O 
Lord, we beseech thee, this glorious period; — this promised, happy day ! 
Now my respected friends, let us all desire and earnestly pray, 
that we may speedily be delivered from all those great and painful 
calamities, which have so long afllicted our race. From war and its 
horrid effects, from pestilence, earthquakes, tornadoes, inundations, 
volcanoes, and disasters by sea and land, let us say. Good Lord deliv- 
er us. From slavery and oppression, from misrule, civil discord and 
contention, from profanation of the Sabbath, profane swearing, and all 



13 

immoral and licentious practices, Good Lord deliver us. From sui- 
cides, duelling, robberies, riots, massacres and murders ; from destruc- 
tion by fire, by lightning, by drought and famine ; from all excess and 
intemperance, and their direful and deadly effects, Good Lord, deliver 
us. And, if it be the divine will, may we all be so happy as to see 
good days and good years, according to the days and years wherein wc 
liave seen evil ! 



PART SECOND. 

Psalm xxxix, 5. 
"MINE AGE IS AS NOTHING BEFORE THEE." 
Having in the first part of this discourse spoken of the brevity of hu- 
man life, and considered that the age of man, even at its longest date, is 
as nothing before God, and nothing compared with eternity ; having 
noticed some of the many interesting scenes and events, that usually fill 
up the life or age of man ; and having particulaily pointed out the great 
changes that are often experienced by individuals, families, towns, 
countries, and the world in general, in the course of half a century, all 
which are closed up at last by the great and solemn change, that takes 
place in death ; I proceed now, to speak of this town in particular ; and 
to notice some of those things, which have transpired since my settle- 
ment in it. 

This town from its first settlement received the name it now bears ; 
which was given it, as is supposed, by reason of some of its first inhabi- 
tants coming from a town of the same name in England. It began to 
be settled about the year 1C35 ; two centuries ago. The first settler, it 
is said, was by the name of Berry. Others who came soon after, were 
of the names of Seavey, Rand, and Bracket. Those who soon followed, 
were of the names of Wallis, Locke and Jenness; which names, except 
those of Bracket and of Wallis, are still retained among us ; and most 
of them are numerous. 

This town, which was originally taken off from Portsmouth, Green- 
land, Hampton and Newcastle, continued about ninety years destitute 
of the settled ministry of the gospel. The people attended public 
worship in the neighboring towns as was most convenient. The inhab- 
itants, who at that time were but thinly scattered, and most of them in 
low circumstances, never began to prosper in any considerable degree as 
to outward circumstances, until they erected a house of public worship, 
formed a church, and had the ministry and ordinances of the gospel 
settled among them. The first meeting house was erected in the year 
1725 ; a church was organized July 10, 1726 ; and the first minister 
settled was Rev. Nathaniel Morrill. He was ordained Sept. 14, 1726; — 



.14 

Avas a man of acknowledged abilities, of good natural and acqaired gifts. 
He continued in the ministry about seven years, and was then dismissed. 
After Mr. Morrill's dismission, the people remained destitute seve- 
ral years ; but being desirous of having the gospel ministry re-settled 
among them, they made laudable exertions to that end. Having heard 
several candidates on probation, they made choice of Mr. Samuel Par- 
sons, and invited him to settle with them in the gospel ministry. — 
Having accepted their invitation, he was ordained Nov. 3, 1736. He 
officiated in the ministry till the year 1784; making nearly half a^ centu- 
ry. In the same year, Dec. 29, the present Senior Pastor of this 
church was ordained as Colleague with this, his worthy and respected 
Predecessor. The Rev. Mr. Parsons, though infirm by reason of age 
and repeated paralytic shocks, continued to the fourth of Jan. 1789, in 
the seventy-eighth year of his age ; when, as we trust, he entered into 
the joy of his Lord. During his ministry two hundred and six persons were 
admitted into full communion with the Church, and one thousand six 
hundred, as appears by the church record, received the ordinance of 
baptism.* 

From the close of the year 1784 to the beginning of the present 
year, making half a century, one hundred and eighty-four have been 
admitted to the table ot the Lord, and nine hundred and four have been 
baptized. Thirty-six members have been dismissed, and removed from 
this to other churches, and a few have been received to our communion 
by letter. The church consists, at present, of one hundred and twenty 
members. 

The number of births, during the last half century, is estimated at 
about one thousand five hundred and fifty. And the deaths during the 
same period, not far from seven hundred. The oldest person that has 
died was a female by the name of Tucker. She lived to the great age; 
of ninety-nine years and nine months. 

This town has lost a very'considerable number of its inhabitants in 
times of war, both by sea and land. In the year 1696, twenty-one 
persons were either killed or carried away captive by the Indians ; and 
a number of others were killed not long after. In the Canada or French 
War, so called, fourteen were killed or died in the service of their coun- 
try. And in the Revolutionary War, or first war with Great Britain, the 
town experienced the loss of twenty-eight persons ; most of them young 
men, and doubtless dear to their friends. In the last war with Great- 
Britain, about twenty were engaged in the service, in which two 
lost their lives. 

According to accounts collected, twenty-seven persons mostly stran- 

*The children of iliosc parents who owned llieii- btiptismal covenant, though not admitted 
to full coniiuuiiion with the church, were then baptized. 



15 

gers, have at different time? been drowned, on or near the coast within 
tlie limits of this town. 

We must acknowledge, that notwithstanding the many trials and 
hardships of our forefathers, and the first settlers of this town, and 
notwithstanding the vicissitudes, afflictions and mortality, that have been 
experienced by their descendants from time to time, we at this day reap^ 
many of the fruits of their toils and trials. We are, indeed, favored with 
many blessings and privileges, civil, religious and literary, far beyond 
what they enjoyed. Laws of gratitude to God should therefore be writ- 
ten on all our hearts, and good fruits in proportion brought forth to the 
praise and glory of his name. 

Our attention may now be turned more particularly to the affairs of 
this town since my settlement and residence in it. Application having 
previously been made to me, I came to this town in the year 1784, and 
preached the first sermon here on the first sabbath in August the same 
year. After supplying the pulpit a short time, a call to settle in the 
ministry was given me by the church, and concurred with by the con- 
gregation ; and by both, the call was unanimous. Little or no opposition 
was made to the terms of settlement ; and the ordination, as before 
mentioned, took place on the twenty-ninth day of December following. 
And I now stand before you in the eightieth year of my age, while a very 
great majority of my first hearers have gone down to the congregation of 
the dead, and their accounts sealed up to the judgment of the great day. 
Now when I look around on this assembly, or over the town, I see only 
here and there one that was then grown to manhood, and but two solita- 
ry individuals, that were then members of the church. Of course a new 
church, — a new congregation, as it were, has come upon the stage. 

The population of this town, at the time of my settlement, was 
about eight hundred and sixty. It is now estimated at twelve hundred. 
This number by reason of the improvements made, and a better state of 
husbandry, can be as well or better supported now, than that number 
could then. On this account, probably, emigrations or removals from 
this town have been less frequent of late, than in former years. The 
inhabitants here were formerly, and for along series of years, remarka- 
ble for their unanimity in their civil and religious concerns. For nearly 
thirty years after my settlement among them, there was not one family 
of any other than the congregational order or denomination. All who 
attended public worship, met in this house. These seats, these pews, 
these galleries were then filled with attentive, and not altogether, as 
hoped, with unprofitable hearers. Union and peace were then enjoyed. 
And, as m.iy well be supposed, much less expense was then 
incurred by the inhabitants than at present, in supporting the public 
institutions of the gospel. O how good and how pleasant for families, 



16 

lor parents and children, for brethren and citizens, yea a whole town, 
to dwell together in unity ! 

Since that harmonious and pleasant time, owing to some diversity 
of religious opinions, and other circumstances, two other societies* have 
been formed in this town, which meet and worship in different places. — 
Whether these divisions will be for the better, that is, for the furtherance 
of the gospel, for the glory of God and the advancement of the Redeem- 
er's kingdom, which consists in righteousness, peace and joy in the 
Holy Ghost, or not, we cannot clearly foresee at present, cannot know 
now ; but we shall know hereafter. It will fully appear in the records 
and by the light of eternity ! 

While these divisions have been taking place, and different socie- 
ties forming, there have been, as no doubt many of you recollect, some 
hard feelings, and sayings, some harsh expressions used towards one 
another, and in some instances, toward the Pastor of the church ; yet I 
trust, I have never indulged in any feelings of unholy resentment or 
enmity, toward any individual or family. I know not, that the sun has 
gone down upon my wrath, or that I have ever felt a spirit of enmity, or 
wished harm to any of my fellow creatures, friends or foes, saints or 
sinners. 

I speak thus my friends not, I trust, from a spirit of boasting, or 
esteeming myself better than others. I am sensible I have my sins and 
infirmities, an am subject to like passions with other men. In myself, 
I see much cause for humiliation, and my sincere desire is, to be suita- 
bly humble in view of all my sins and imperfections. Well may I think 
and speak lowly of myself, as a sinful creature, a worm of the dust ; or, 
as the Psalmist expresses it of himself, " a worm and no man." I view 
myself but an atom in the vast creation of God ; Yea, I am nothing, and 
my age is as nothing before the great Eternal ! before that incomprehen- 
sible Being who is from everlasting to everlasting ; who is without begin- 
ning of days or end of life ; and with whom one day is as a thousand 
years, and a thousand years as one day ! O, may we all now and ever 
fear before this great God, realizing that his eye is ever upon us, and tliat 
to him we must give an account for every word and action. 

But to return from this digression, if it may be so called, I proceed to 
add a few more observations relative to the divisions and different denom- 
inations among us. Although there may have been at times, as before 
observed, some disagreeable occurrences, some improper feelings antl 
expressions, yet, if any in these matters have acted, as they may have 
imagined, conscientiously, and with a view to the glory of God and the 
interests of religion, they will have their reward. 

I do, however, myself, after having for more than half a century 



*Baplisl nnd Modiodist. 



17 

studied the sacred scriptures and attended to the writings and sentiments 
of some of the most eminent, learned and pious men in (his, and in other 
countries, view the congregational order of worship and administration of 
christian ordinances, more agreeable to the word of God, the only rule 
of faith and practice, than any with which I am acquainted. God, we 
know, is a God of order, and not of confusion, as in all the churches. — 
Hence we are exhorted in scripture to " mark them which cause divis- 
ions and offences, contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and 
avoid them." 

Whether the divisions and separations that have taken place in this 
town, come within the meaning of the inspired passage just quoted, or 
not, 1 attempt not at present to decide. To his own master, every one 
standeth or falleth. Yet, this I say, that notwithstanding some diversity 
of opinion, different places of worship, and different modes of adminis- 
tering ordinances, we all profess to worship the same living and true 
God ; hold to the same head, acknowledging Jesus Christ to be head over 
all things to the church, and the great and allsufficient Saviour of sin- 
ners. We all preach, in our different way and manner, Christ Jesus the 
Lord — Christ crucified, the wisdom of God and the power of God unto 
salvation, to every one that believeth. And if Christ be preached, wheth- 
er it be as the Apostle expresses it, of envy and strife, or of good will, 
whether it be of contention, not sincerely, or in pretence, or of love, we 
must and will therein rejoice, even though on some accounts it will be 
with trembling. 

Since my residence in this town, though a good degree of general 
health has been enjoyed, as much so perhaps on an average, as towns in 
general, yet sickness has in some seasons prevailed, and consequent mor- 
tality been more than usual. The deaths for fifty years past have aver- 
aged about fourteen in a year. The smallest number in any one year 
was Jive; and the largest number, thirty-Jive. One year in particular as 
may be noticed, was very remarkable for the great sickness and mortality 
in it ; namely, the year 1803. More than two hundred and twenty 
persons, were seized with diseases of various kinds, so as to require the 
advice and assistance of a physician. Of these thirty five deceased. — 
That solemn season, thirty two years ago, not many present, perhaps, 
can distinctly remember. But the mention of the sickness and mortality 
may lead us to consider to what we are every year liable; and to 
realize, that it is owing to the long suffering and mercy of our God, that 
under our manifold sins and neglects of duty, we are not visited with 
more frequent and distressing judgments than we are. O, that his long- 
suffering and goodness might lead us to repentance, and to newness of 
life ! When we humbly confess and forsake our sins, and faithfully dis- 
charge duties, serving the Lord our God in sincerity and truth, then may 

3 



18 

we expect to spend our days in prosperity, and our years in sacred peace 
and pleasure ; and shall be that happy people whose God is the Lord. — 
O, may the year upon which we have now entered, be a year of the 
right hand of the Most High ! wherein we shall, as individuals and as a 
people, experience the blessings of the upper and nether springs ; where- 
in God shall pour out of his spirit upon us, and his blessing upon our 
offspring ; wherein his work shall be revived, and his goings and glory 
be seen more abundantly, than in years that are past. 

Realizing, that it is through the merciful kindness of our Father in 
heaven, that we have been brought to the commencement of a new year, 
let us look back upon the one that is past ; in which we have experienced 
many outward enjoyments, have had our civil and religious privileges 
continued, and most of us, perhaps, our beloved friends and relatives 
spared to us. For which favors, unfeigned thanks should be rendered 
to the great Preserver of men, and the giver of every good gift. Some 
among us, however, have been called to experience sore bereavements, 
and to mourn the loss of near and beloved friends. We can recognise and 
record thirteen deaths the last year. Those, who have been called to 
mourning, will doubtless readily recollect their afflictions and trials, and 
will still feel the obligations they are under to make a wise improvement 
of them, and seriously to regard the voice which says, "Be you also 
ready." — In all probability others among us, in the course of the present 
year, will receive the summons of death. And as we know not the day 
or year of our decease, each one of us may say, with particular applica- 
tion to himself. It may be me ! It may be me ! — Am I ready ? 

In further noticing the affairs of this town, it may not be improper 
to mention, that in the year 1828, the civil contract between the Senior 
Pastor of this church and people was dissolved ; but his pastoral relation 
to the church still continues. 

The present Junior Pastor of the churfch, after supplying the pulpit 
a few months, was invited to settle here in the sacred ministry. Having 
accepted the invitation, he was ordained as colleague Pastor of the 
church, the thirteenth day of May, 1829. On him the ministerial labors 
and duties, of course, have devolved. He has not, we trust, laboured in 
,vaijCi among us. If he may not have seen that abundant success attend- 
ing his ministrations, in the awakening, conviction and conversion of 
sinners, and in quickening the children of God to greater activity and 
engagedness ic the cause of the Redeemer, for which it appears to have 
been his hearts desire and prayer to God, yet, a number of you, I trust 
can acknowledge him as having been instrumental of promoting your 
spiritual interests and welfare. 

Although the senior Pastor has occasionally assisted in religious 
,#xercise9 and duties, yet, consjdenng his advanced age, official labor by 



19 

him m future, is altogether uncertain. I would not say, my friends, that 
this is the last time, I shall attempt publicly to address you ; but, to the 
eye of reason, and according to the usual course of Providence, it can- 
not be very long before it may may be said by those who survive. We, 
shall hear his voice, we shall see his face no more ! Your daily and 
earnest prayers to God for me, are requested ; that, whether I live, I may 
live unto the Lord, or whether I die, I may die unto the Lord ; that 
whether, therefore, I live or die, I may be the Lord's, 

What may be further offered on this occasion, will be by way of 
advice and exhortation. I shall direct myself to several ages and classes 
of persons- 
First, to children. 

I write unto you, little children, lambs of the flock ; " your parents' 
hope, your parents' joy." I write unto you, because you are capable of 
receiving instruction and need advice ; because you are capable of know- 
ing tlie Father, your Creator, who has given you reason, conscience and 
immortal souls, and made you capable of loving, serving, glorifying, and 
enjoying him forever ; because you are favored with the means of 
knowing Jesus Christ, the Saviour of sinners, who came to seek and 
to save them that were lost; who, while here upon earth, took little chil- 
dren up in his arms, laid his hands upon them, and blessed them ; and 
when some were so unreasonable as to oppose it, he was displeased, and 
said, " Suffer little children to come unto me and forbid them not ; for 
of such is the kingdom of heaven." And now, little children, as you need 
a Saviour, and need his forgiveness and blessing, ought I not to tell you 
your duty, and exhort you to consider your necessities, and immediately 
come to this compassionate Saviour, who loved you and died to save you ; 
also, to repent of your sins, to seek his favour and forgiveness, to give up 
your hearts to him, and while you live, to love, serve, and obey him. 
All these things are very plain and reasonable ; you are capable of un- 
derstanding them ; and now, while young, you have a favorable oppor- 
tunity, and ought seriously to attend to them. It is your duty also, to 
honour and obey your parents, to love your brothers and sisters, to be kind 
and affectionate to your school mates, to love and speak the truth, to read 
and esteem the Bible, and to fear God and keep all his commandments. 
The means of improvement, with which you are favored; are greater than 
what children formerly enjoyed ; much greater than what your parents 
had when they were young. Being, thus highly favored above what hun- 
dreds of thousands, in our own, and especially in heathen countries, have 
been, should I not then tell you, highly to prize, and diligently improve 
those means, these precious privileges ? particularly to attend the sabbath 
school, to study tlie sacred scriptures, that you may learn the way of life 
and salvation by Jesus Christ. 

Does it not seem strange to you who come to this school, that more 
do not attend it ? — a school in which the most interesting things are 
taught, things concerning God, Christ, and Heaven, that holy, happy 
place. It is observed, that many do not attend the sabbath school. I 
know not what reason they assign for it. Can you tell me, children, 
why it is, that so many stay away ? It is a free school, and whosoever 
will, may come and enjoy its privileges. Those who do attend, attract 
the notice and esteem of their instructors and friends, and will probably 



20 

soon surpass others in knowledge and respectability. O, how pleasant 
it is to see a lar^e number of children and youth assembled together in 
the holy sanctuary, to be instructed in divine and heavenly things, and 
have pointed out to them the only way that leads to glory, honour and 
immortality ! And that being led to walk in wisdom's ways, we may 
have satisfactory evidence, that they are numbered among those happy 
children, of whom it is said. Of such is the kingdom of heaven. 

Secondly, to young men. 

I write unto you, my young friends, because you are strong ; have 
arrived to strength of body and of mind, and are able to discern between 
good and evil ; and because you are able by divine help, and by making 
use of the christian armour, to resist the wiles of the adversary, to over- 
come the wicked one, and to withstand the various temptations, with 
which you may be assaulted. The stage of life to which you have now 
arrived, is very interesting and critical. Much is depending upon the 
course you take, and the qualifications you acquire. The eyes of your 
parents and friends, and of the more aged members of society, are now 
directed to you as their successors, — as those who are soon to take the 
lead in the business and concerns of life. Your fathers and elders were 
once young as you are now. They did not then, perhaps, realize the 
vast importance of their time and privileges ; and like many who are 
young, did not fully appreciate the advantages of a good education, which 
is so nocessary to being qualified for eminent usefulness in their day and 
generation. Your time now is equally precious and important as theirs 
was then. Your privileges are, inJeed, much greater than what they en- 
joyed. Schools at the present day are better furnished and instructed ; 
are more convenient and kept longer ; books are more easily procured, 
and better adapted to the great purposes of education. And further ; 
the means of grace and religious knowledge are enjoyed to a greater 
degree than formerly; so that you enjoy greater facilities of acquiring 
knowledge, both human and divine, than were experienced by your 
fathers. Should I not then exhort and urge you, to avail yourselves of all 
the opportunities you have, to improve your strength and capacities, your 
time and talents, and the day and means of grace, for acquiring that 
knowledge and those qualifications, which are requisite to acting your sev- 
eral parts in life, with credit to yourselves, with honor to God, and useful- 
ness to your fellow men? May I not also reason with you, and endeavour 
to excite you to improve the many leisure hours you have, your long winter 
evenings, and your intervals of labor in all seasons of the year, for this 
important purpose. Are there not many precious hours lost in doing 
little or nothing of importance ; spent in idle company, trifling conversa- 
tion, and in unnecessary, and perhaps, hurtful pastimes and recreations; 
or spent in reading books of no value, calculated rather to dissipate 
the mind and thoughts, than to instruct, edify, or reform ? Realize then, 
my friends, that these hours, wisely improved in reading and studies, 
would serve to furnish you for the enjoyment of better company ; to 
render you more agreeable to your companions, and more respectable 
members of society. 

Furthermore, when we consider the many enemies and temptations 
with which you are surrounded, enemies of your holiness and virtue, and 
the great danger you are in of being led astray from the paths of recti- 
tude, and of falling into sin, should I not caution, counsel and warn you ? 
Have not many young persons, both male and female, been overcome by 
allurements and temptations? overcome by the wiles of the enemy, by 



21 

"deceitful and flattering appearances and promises 1 Have not many 
been ensnared by the lusts of the flesh, the lusts of the eye, and the pride 
of life] bringing reproach not only upon themselves, and upon their families 
and connexions, but upon the town and societies to which they belong, and 
upon our holy religion 1 — Say then, my young friends, Is it not needful 
and proper ; Is it not a friendly part in him, whose duty it is to declare 
the whole counsel of God, to address you in particular, and earnestly to 
beseech you, to guard against the enemies of your holiness and virtue, 
your peace and happiness 1 affectionately urging you to watch and pray, 
that you enter not into temptation, that you may be strengthened with 
all might in the inner and outward man, that you may be able to with- 
stand in the evil day, maintaining your integrity and honour. For you 
should realize, that you are able by divine grace to stand, and to walk 
uprightly ; yea, you can do all things necessary for your present safety, 
and for your final victory and salvation, through Christ strengthening you; 
through him, who, while here upon earth, was a pattern of every virtue, 
and having himself suffered being tempted, is able to succour them that 
are tempted. 

Thirdly, to fathers. 

I write unto you, fathers, heads of families, and the leading and 
most influential portion of the community ; and, in a friendly manner 
would call you to consider the highly responsible stations and relations 
in which you stand ; to realize how much is depending on tlie parts you 
act, on a faithful discharge of the duties you owe to the young and rising 
generation and to society; and on the example you set before your families 
and those around you. In view of the importance of these things, does it 
not appear necessary and expedient, that you should be put in remem- 
brance of them, though ye know them ; and that you may be more and 
more established in the knowledge and practice of duty ? I would, 
therefore, fathers and mothers, speak unto you the things which become 
sound doctrine, and exhort you, in the words of Paul the aged, to be sober, 
grave, temperate, sound in faith, charity, patience, showing all good 
fidelity, maintaining good works ; not at any time provoking your children 
to wrath, but bringing them up in the nurture and admonition of the 
Lord ; also, to correct them seasonably and in measure, knowing, that as 
foolishness is bound up in the hearts of children, the rod of correction 
will drive it far from them ; and to be in behaviour before your families 
at all times as becometh holiness, not neglecting the morning and even- 
ing sacrifice, nor any known duty ; to be teachers of good things ; teach- 
ing your children and households, and even commanding thfem, as did 
Abraham the father of the faithful, to do justice and judgment, and to 
keep the right ways of the Lord ; also, to teach the young men and 
women to be sober minded, to be discreet, chaste, good and obedient to 
the faith, that the word of God be not blasphemed. When your children 
and young people around you, refuse to receive instruction, set at nought 
the counsels of wisdom, and would none of her reproofs, then is the word 
of God despised, reproached and blasphemed. But when, in accordance 
with your good instruction and pious example, they walk uprightly and 
keep the commandments of God, then is his word honored, and you will 
have occasion of great joy ; for no greater joy have godly parents than to 
see and hear that their children walk in the truth. Children, you know, 
especially when young, are very apt to be influenced by what they notice 
in their parents. If then your life and conversation, if your instruction 
nnd p.\ ample be good, is it not to be hoped, th?t your children will be 



22 

followers of that which is good ? But if bad, will they not in all prob- 
ability, by your conversation and example, be corrupted and ruined? — 
Alas ! how many children have in this way, been destroyed ! O, ye, 
who are fathers and mothers, realize the high responsibility that rests 
upon you, and the very important bearing your manner of life has, and 
will be likely to have, upon the character of your children ; and indeed 
upon all the young and rising generation around you ! 

In the next place, I would address myself to the members of the 
church ; and I shall endeavor to speak unto you, my beloved brethren and 
friends, as becometh the oracles of God. I have in times past written 
unto your fathers. I have also before written to you. Permit me now 
to add a i'ew words for your consideration and quickening. Realize 
that the church is as a light set on a hill which cannot be hid. The 
eyes of God are upon it for good, though he often find some things in it, 
as he did in the seven churches of Asia, amiss ; and therefore deserving 
rebuke and chastening; and were exhorted to be watchful and to repent. 
But the eyes of the world are upon the church for evil. Many, it is be- 
lieved, are watching for the halting of its members ; and ihe disposition 
of some of its enemies is such, that they rejoice, as we have reason to 
think, when any are left to stumble and fall ; even when the blessed 
Redeemer is wounded in the house of his friends ! 

Is it not needful then, that you be circumspect and vigila.it; that 
you walk in wisdom toward them that are without, giving no occasion of 
offence to any ; and if possible, no ground for the enemies of religion to 
speak reproachfully of you, or of the religion you profess. And since 
you are in a world surrounded by so many enemies, temptations and 
dangers, how needful is it, also, that you put on the whole armour of 
God', the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, the girdle of truth, the 
breastplate of righteousness, and the sword of the spirit ; having your 
feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace ; praying also with 
all prayer and supplication in the spirit ; and watching thereunto with 
all perseverance, that you may thus be strong in the Lord, and able to 
withstand in the evil day ; and having done all to stand fast in the liberty 
wherewith Christ has made you free. 

Being the professed disciples and followers of Jesus Christ, be care- 
ful, dearly beloved, to exercise and exemplify the virtues and graces of 
Christianity. Feel and manifest at all times those bowels of mercy, and 
that spirit of kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, forbearance, long 
suffering and forgiveness, toward one another, which the word of God so 
expressly enjoins. Above all things put on charity, which is the bond 
of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the 
which also ye are called in one body ; and be ye thankful. Let the word 
of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom ; teaching and admonishing 
one another in psalms, and hymns, and spiritual songs, singing with grace 
in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever'ye do in word or deed, do 
all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father 
by him. And, as much is said in the inspired volume, respecting peace, 
unity and love, among the followers of Christ, be exhorted to love as breth- 
ren ; to be of one accord and of one mind ; to avoid all strife and vain 
glory ; and in lowliness of mind, to esteem others better than yourselves. 
Let the same mind be in you, at all times, which was also in Christ Jesus, 
and walk in his steps ; thus manifesting yourselves to be blameless and 
harmless, the sons of God without rebuke, in the midst of a world lying 
in jwlckedjiess. 



23 

Finally, brethren, rejoice in the Lord. Rejoice cveririore. Pray 
vvitliout ceasing, and in every thing give thanks. Prove all things, hold 
last that which is good, and abstain Ironi all appearance of evil. And 
the very God of peace sanctity yon wholly ; and I pray God your whole 
spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless, unto the coming of our 
Lord Jesus Christ. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you 
all. 

If there be any present, who have not publicly professed faith in Christ, 
but think seriously on this subject; who feel it to be their duty, and yet 
live in its neglect, be assured, my friends, that this neglect or delay is 
hazardous with regaid to your spiritual and eternal interests ; and it im- 
mediately concerns you to be really and professedly the friends of Christ, 
as you would expect to be owned and accepted of him, when he shall 
come in the glory of his Father, with the holy angels, to judge the world 
in righteousness. Surely he that shall come, will come, and may come 
suddenly. Alas ! if you should then be found in a state of disobedience ! 

If tliere be any careless and unconcerned, impenitent and unbeliev- 
ing, regardless of the terrible thunders of Sinai and curses of the law, 
regardless also of the ple^-sant inviting sound of the gospel ; let me say 
to you in a warning voice, " A little more sleep, a little more slumber, 
a little more folding of the hands to sleep," and there is reason to feaf, 
that you will sleep the sleep of death, and go down to destruction ! But 
loth my friends to give you up, loth that you should give yourselves up to 
ruin, I would now hold up before you the golden sceptre of mercy, that 
is still in great compassion extended toward you, beseeching you to touch 
it and live. 

To thi^ whole assembly, to all classes, aged and young, parents and 
children, I would in conclusion say. Realize, my respected friends, your 
high standing in the scale of beings, placed here on the earth, the most 
distinguised part of the visible creation, being made rational, accountable, 
moral agents, but little lower than the angels, and put on probation for 
another and never ending state of existence. Surely a high and most 
interesting destiny awaits you hereafter ; for all must enter the eternal 
world, must come to judgment, and be judged and rewarded according 
to their character and works. Under the light and privileges of the 
gospel, and that divine assistance which is freely offered, you may be- 
come wise unto salvation and rise to heaven ; or you may, by being 
regardless of the warnings and invitations given you in the gospel, and 
going on presumptuously in the ways of sin, go down to the regions of 
darkness, horror and desjjair. So that life and death, the blessing and 
the curse, heaven and hell, are now set before you, to allure on the one 
hand, and to alarm on the other, that you may be induced to act the 
wiser part. Is not your state, therefore, exceedingly critical and inter- 
esting 1 And is it not very necessary and proper, that those whose duty it 
is to watch for souls, as those that must give an account, to instruct, 
counsel, exhort and warn you ? 

Be entreated, my friends, to consider what has been done, and is 
still doing for you, as sinners ! Abundant provision has been made in 
Christ for your recovery from a state of sin and condemnation. God is 
now graciously giving you a space for repentance, and solemnly com- 
mands you to repent. He is indulging you with the day and means of 
grace, and enjoins it upon you to improve them. He is trying you by 
mercies and afflictions ; and makes it your plain duty in the day of 
prosperity to be joyful and thankful, and in the day of adversity to 



24 

-consider his hand, and learn righteonsness. He has given liis only sons 
to be the great prophet, priest and king, of salvation. And speaks, as 
with a voice from heaven, saying, " This is my beloved Son in whom I 
am well pleased, hear ye him." He has appointed the holy sabbath, as 
a day of sacred rest, and serious attention to rel1*gious concerns and 
duties ; — and in a thundering voice from the fiery mount, commands you 
to remember the sabbath day to keep it holy. He has instituted the 
duties of public worship, and christian ordinances, lor your improve- 
ment, and expressly enjoins it upon you, not to forsake the assembling of 
yourselves together as the manner of some is. He has also instituted 
the sacred ministry, and set watchmen upon the walls of Zion, whose 
duty it is to cry aloud and spare not ; to lift their voices like a trumpet 
and show the people their sins and transgressions ; and to say unto them, 
as 1 live saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the 
wicked ; but that the wicked turn from his way and live ; therefore, turn 
ye, turn ye, for why will ye die. Your Maker and judge has given you 
the moral law, as a rule of life, and the glorious gospel as a rule of faith 
and practice ; — and affectionately enjoins it upon you, to hear, believe 
and obey, that your souls may live. 

I would now urge you all. my friends, to realize that the great end 
of the plan of redemption, of the mission of the Son of God to this our 
earth, of the scriptures of the old and new testament, of all the means 
and institutions of religion, and of the various condescending and 
gracious measures that have been, and still are taken with the children of 
men, is, that sinners of mankind might be led to repentance, faith and 
obedience. Holy obedience is, indeed, that which crowns the whole. 
For, if you attend to all the means and institutions of religion, and wait 
upon God in all the ways of his appointment, yet, if the end should not 
be found in holy obedience, what would it profit? If you were to have 
the whole counsel of God declared to you, if the truths of the divine 
word were preached to you every sabbath, and every day of the week, 
and preached by the most eminent and engaged speakers ; and if they 
were to make use of the most powerful arguments to prevail with you to 
love and obey the truth, still, if the fruit should not be found in holy 
obedience, what would it profit 1 Nay, if one should arise from the 
dark regions of the dead, or come up from the bottomless pit, or should 
a messenger descend from the skies, an angel come down from heaven, 
and preach as did Moses and the Prophets, as did Christ and his 
apostles, and the result should not be found in holy obedience to the divine 
will, what would it profit ? 

Hence you m'ay justly infer, that if you would be savingly profited 
by the preaching of the word, by the means and institutions of religion, 
and by the various methods God is taking with you in the course of his 
providence and grace, bow in obedience to his holy will. If you would 
be blessed in all your concerns, ternporaf and spiritual, if you would be 
blessed in your stations and employments, in the labor of your hands, in 
your going out and coming in ; if you would be blessed in your persons 
and familiee, and in society; if you would be blessed in life and at death, 
and happy in the world of spirits ; Be you doers of the word, obedient 
to the truth, and not the hearers only. 

Hear, in conclusion, what the Apostle James saith, " Vllioso 
lookdh into the perfect law of Uherty and cont'mucth therein, he being not 
a forgetful hearer , hut a doer of the loorlc, this man shall he blessed in his^ 
deeds.^'' And may I not add. Blessed forcvcrmore ! 



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